On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Port Townsend
Building permits are required for most construction and improvement work, including new residential and commercial construction, additions, structural alterations, remodeling affecting structural elements or MEP systems, decks and covered porches, fences over 7 feet, roofing replacements, sheds and accessory structures (see exempt work), mechanical equipment, solar panel installations, and window replacements.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures (tool sheds, greenhouses, playhouses, similar) with a projected roof area under 200 square feet
- Exempt Fences under 7 feet in height
- Exempt Retaining walls and rockeries not over 4 feet in height (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall), not supporting surcharge or impounding Class I, II, or III-A liquids
- Exempt Routine maintenance and cosmetic work (painting, wallpapering, floor covering, cabinet replacement, non-structural repairs)
Note: Size alone does not exempt a structure — critical areas location, historic district location, or shoreline proximity may still trigger a permit requirement. Exempt work must still comply with all building code standards, other city codes, and applicable setback requirements.
- Completed permit application (submitted via portal)
- Site plan showing property lines, existing structures, and proposed work location
- Construction drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections) scaled appropriately
- Energy code compliance documentation (2021 Washington State Energy Code)
- Structural calculations where applicable
- For residential additions or new construction: glazing schedules and prescriptive energy worksheets
- Proof of contractor registration with L&I (if using a contractor)
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with Washington State amendments (effective March 15, 2024) and 2021 Washington State Energy Code
- Permit validity
- Applications expire 180 days after filing. An extension of up to 90 additional days may be granted on request before expiration. Issued permits expire 365 days without any building inspections; once any inspection occurs, the permit automatically extends 180 days from that inspection date.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders may apply directly for permits.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must be registered with Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Contractors must hold a current L&I contractor registration and L&I electrical contractor license (if performing electrical work). Failure to verify contractor L&I registration creates liability exposure.
Source: Planning and Community Development (PCD) — Building Division ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by project type; most applications processed within 2-4 weeks after completeness.
- 01 Review the applicable checklist for your project type (residential, commercial, demolition, mechanical, solar, window replacement, septic, etc.) on the Forms & Documents page.
- 02 Create an account on the SmartGov portal.
- 03 Click 'Apply' and select the appropriate category (Planning & Community Development, Public Works, or Land Use Related Permits).
- 04 Upload all required documents and complete the application through the portal's on-screen prompts.
- 05 City staff reviews plans for code compliance. A deficiency letter is issued if revisions are needed; respond with corrected materials.
- 06 Upon permit issuance, an access code is provided for scheduling inspections through the portal.
- 07 Keep the signed permit and approved plans on-site and accessible during all work and inspections.
Typical processing time: Varies by project type; most applications processed within 2-4 weeks after completeness.
Source: Planning and Community Development (PCD) — Building Division ↗
Fee schedule
Effective 2026
Permit technicians can provide fee estimates upon inquiry. Contact permittinghelp@cityofpt.us or call (360) 379-5095.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective 2026) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- SmartGov portal (online)
- Building Inspection Hotline: (360) 385-2294 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. (walk-in counter hours)
Typical sequence: Common inspection stages for new residential construction include: foundation/pre-pour, framing/rough (structural framing, rough plumbing, mechanical, electrical), insulation, and final inspection. The required inspections list for any given project is generated at permit issuance and may vary. Covering work before inspector approval may require uncovering or redoing completed work.
Remote video inspections may be used for certain inspection types at the city's discretion.
Source: Planning and Community Development (PCD) — Building Division ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Port Townsend permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Port Townsend, WA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Port Townsend, WA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Port Townsend, WA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Port Townsend, WA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Port Townsend, WA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Port Townsend, WA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Planning and Community Development (PCD) — Building Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.